Commenting on the European Union's approval of plans for the nationalised Northern Rock to be split in two, paving the way for a partial sale, Vince Cable said "While the EU is right that there should be greater competition in the financial sector, splitting Northern Rock into 'good' and 'bad' banks risks leaving the taxpayer with the scraps while the private sector gets the prime cuts."
The Guardian reports that Tony Blair's chances of becoming the EU president were dealt a blow today when Nick Clegg, the Liberal Democrat leader, rejected his candidacy and evidence emerged that Germany has been spooked by the scale of the hostility from David Cameron.
Jacquie writes :
Heather Kidd has called for a re-think on government proposals to extend police powers, which are supposed to prevent criminals enjoying luxury lifestyles, being given to councils and other public bodies. These could then be used against ordinary members of the public.
Lib Dems say park and ride is still the answer
Local residents in Balderstone now have the chance to stop, rest and enjoy fair view after a new bench was put in place.